India’s fielding coach T Dilip has provided a reassuring update on Axar Patel after the all-rounder suffered a nasty fall during India’s Asia Cup 2025 group-stage clash against Oman in Abu Dhabi. Dilip confirmed that Axar is “fine” after the head knock, though his availability for Sunday’s high-voltage Super Four clash against Pakistan in Dubai remains uncertain.
The incident occurred in the 15th over of Oman’s chase when wicketkeeper-batter Hammad Mirza mistimed a skier. Sprinting in from mid-off, Axar attempted a difficult catch but lost balance while juggling the ball and crashed headfirst into the turf. He immediately clutched his head and neck before being escorted off the field by the physio.
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Axar Patel did not return to the field for the remainder of the innings, having bowled just one over for four runs earlier in the match. India managed to secure a 21-run victory, rotating as many as eight bowlers in the absence of Bumrah and Chakravarthy, though the attack lacked its usual sharpness at the death.
#indvsoman | #AsiaCup2025 | #IndvsOmn
– Axar Patel got injured while taking a catch, got hurt on his head.
– Hope he is fine. pic.twitter.com/ty9bkgvLil— Kshitij (@Kshitij45__) September 19, 2025
Before the injury, Axar Patel made a crucial contribution with the bat, smashing 26 off 13 balls. His counter-attacking knock injected momentum into India’s innings and included a brisk 45-run stand with Sanju Samson, who top-scored with 56.
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With less than 48 hours before the Pakistan showdown, the management faces a tricky call. Axar’s absence could force India to rethink their three-spinner strategy, a setup they have consistently used in Dubai. Washington Sundar, named as a standby, is a potential replacement should India look to retain balance in the XI.
For now, the team will monitor Axar closely, but his injury scare has added an extra layer of uncertainty ahead of the much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash.
